The Democratic Alliance (DA) is under fire for lacking transparency in replacing Dion George as environment minister amid speculation linking leader John Steenhuisen's China ties to the decision. Animal welfare groups and journalists question the party's refusal to explain the appointment of Willie Aucamp. This contrasts with the DA's historical advocacy for accountability.
The controversy erupted following the DA's decision to remove Dion George from his role as environment minister in the Government of National Unity (GNU). George had been strengthening measures against the illegal trade in abalone and lion bone, exports prominent in dealings with China. Speculation arose that John Steenhuisen, the DA leader and agriculture minister, influenced the move during his October trip to China.
On 15 October, while in Shanghai, Steenhuisen signed a stone fruit trade agreement and spoke at the 2nd Conference on the Import and Export Food Safety Cooperation Mechanism of the Belt and Road Initiative. He highlighted benefits of Chinese investments in South African infrastructure, including railways, ports, and highways, and promoted Shanghai's logistics for agricultural exports. This occurred on the same day as an unscheduled DA Federal Executive meeting, reportedly the first attempt to oust George.
Daily Maverick sent six questions on 26 November to Steenhuisen's department about his China engagements since taking office. Spokesperson Joylene van Wyk replied, “Unfortunately we are not going to respond. Sorry for that.” The inquiries aimed to clarify any links to George's removal, given the DA's past skepticism toward Chinese influence in South Africa.
The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) also demanded reasons for appointing Willie Aucamp, citing his ties to hunting, wildlife breeding, and a mining contracting company. In late November, the DA's lawyers refused, stating the NSPCA lacked rights to the information outside a Promotion of Access to Information Act (Paia) request. Federal executive chair Helen Zille explained that only legal channels like Paia or litigation could compel disclosure.
This stance draws criticism, as the DA previously challenged ANC Cabinet reshuffles in court, reaching the Constitutional Court in 2019, which deemed the case moot. Zille noted the contexts differ, but observers argue the party is now mirroring the opacity it once opposed, undermining its transparency credentials.